Microloading vs Lowering Rep Ranges

[Chiaki Nitya]

Possibly stupid question, but in reviewing both the blue and grey books, my takeaway is that generally, microloading should be implemented prior to reducing rep ranges, is that generally correct?

IE before going from say, 3 sets of 5 to 5 sets of 3 with 5lbs jumps, one would keep doing 3x5 but with ~2.5lbs jumps?

[Mark Rippetoe]

This is true for women, and for the press and bench press.

[SouthernLifter]

The conclusion I came to after reading the books is that the priority is to maintain the 5s. You must always maintain 3x5 above all. Microcharging only comes later.

The 3x3 never worked for me in presses.